When you look at yourself in the mirror, are you concerned that your eyes have bags under or above them? Do you notice that they never seem to go away no matter how much sleep you get?
Blepharoplasty might be a good choice for you if you’d like to improve your facial appearance. Keep reading to learn more about blepharoplasty!
What Is Blepharoplasty?
Blepharoplasty is a procedure that corrects sagging and drooping eyelids. This is usually caused by aging and genetics. Have a blepharoplasty can make you look younger.
There are 2 types of Blepharoplasty: upper eyelid blepharoplasty and lower eyelid blepharoplasty.
Blepharoplasty is also used to treat ptosis. Ptosis occurs when drooping eyelids are caused by nerve damage or poor muscle tone. With ptosis, your eyelids hang low and block your vision.
Blepharoplasty does not treat drooping eyebrows or wrinkles. You can have another cosmetic procedure to fix these issues.
Often your surgeon will perform a facelift at the same time as your blepharoplasty.
Why Might You Need Blepharoplasty?
Both genetics and aging can make you look more tired than you are. Are you frustrated with looking exhausted?
Would you like to have the bags of droopy skin above or below your eyes removed?
Do you notice that your upper eyelid seems to disappear under the fatty area below your brow bone? You may want to discuss your options with your doctor.
How Do I Decide If Blepharoplasty Is Right For Me?
You’ll need to have a conversation with your eye doctor. They may recommend blepharoplasty after your conversation.
Here are factors that your eye doctor will take into consideration before scheduling a blepharoplasty:
- Are you in good health?
- Do you feel well informed about the procedure?
- Are you at least 35 years old?
- Is your bone and supporting structure around your eyes strong enough for blepharoplasty?
- Do you have dry eyes, high blood pressure, hypothyroidism, cardiovascular disease, or diabetes?
What To Expect From The Procedure And Recovery
During a blepharoplasty, your surgeon will cut along the creases of your eyelid and trim any sagging skin and muscle. They’ll also remove excess fat and tissue.
They will then stitch the skin back up with tiny stitches that you’ll have removed after healing. You will need to take time off from work to heal.
Most patients take at least 7-10 days off for upper blepharoplasty and 10-14 days off for a lower blepharoplasty.
You may feel some pain and discomfort after your procedure and you’ll have swelling and bruising. It may take a few weeks before you start looking better. You may feel more comfortable ‘hiding out’ at home until you’re healed.
Immediately after blepharoplasty, your vision will be blurry. You will need a family member or friend to drive you home and stay close by in case you need anything.
Your eye doctor will prescribe eye drops to keep your eyes hydrated. You’ll also need to use ice packs near your eyes to help with swelling for at least the first 48 hours.
It may feel odd, but you’ll also need to sleep sitting up to prevent fluid from building up and causing more swelling.
Other precautions to take:
- Wear sunglasses to protect your eyes from the sun and wind
- Take daily naps to increase the time your eyes have to rest
- Carefully wash your face and dry off gently
- Avoid strenuous activity which means no exercising or heavy lifting for at least a week after your procedure
It can take a few months to finish healing. It’s worth it once you see your reflection in a mirror. You’ll have a renewed sense of self-confidence and you’ll be ready to take on the world!
Wondering if a blepharoplasty could be right for you? Schedule an appointment at Westlake Eye Specialists in Austin, TX, to learn more!
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